Jewish Literacy: The Most Important Things to Know About the Jewish Religion, Its People and Its History

Caveat-- Didn't read the whole thing.

I read mostly from the end of the biblical section to the end of medieval period and the section on Sholem Aleichem (the Twain story was great!) through the end of WWII. Was appalled at many things, thoroughly impressed with others (Denmark and Sweden), and thought much about "the 614th commandment."

This sort of book has a place and a use. I find that Jonathan Sacks often has a broader scope and wish that he would attempt something like this.

I just finished reading Jewish Literacy by Joseph Telushkin; all 750 pages. The book has been laying on my shelf, literally, since my son was confirmed at Temple, May 2012. It was given as a reward for the few kids that underwent confirmation after the Bar Mitzvah. I mentioned I was reading it tonight to one of my rabbis and suggested it as good literature to give people in the process of converting to Judaism. He said he looks for less intimidating-looking literature first, and he had a point. I will admit that I did intersperse reading it with other reading. The book looks scarily big but it is surprisingly readable and accessible for what amounts to an encyclopedia covering Jewish history, literature, practice, holidays and show more life-cycle.

Jewish Literacy contained a lot of material I didn't know, even though I am more involved than a typical Reform Jew. Bias alert; one of my tennis partners attended day school with him. show less

As a gentile, this book is most interesting to give insight into Jewish culture.

Pretty good overview. It touches on almost anything one could think to ask about.

This will be on my "currently reading" list for some time. Fat book filled with great Jewish histories. I keep it on my nightstand and read a story from it just about every night. This one will be one I keep.

Obtained this book for my library as a basic introduction to Jewish religions and the differences in the Jewish groups. There is a basic thread that runs throughout the different Jewish sects. I look forward to obtaining an updated editiion for my library. The writer composes his information so that you realy get understanding of basic ideas behind the traditions and celebrations. Well done.

The clubrules and more of Judaism. Interesting overview.